BINGHAMTON, N.Y. – The Binghamton Senators announced today that, in conjunction with the Michael E. Connolly Endowment for Lung Cancer Research, will host the first annual Drop the Puck on Lung Cancer benefit Saturday, Feb. 6 at 4:30 p.m.

The benefit is a special two-game event to help raise awareness of lung cancer, a disease that kills more people than breast, prostate and colon cancers combined. The event kicks off with a special benefit game between River Meade Hockey and the Syracuse Gray Wolves at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena at 4:30 p.m., followed by the B-Sens home game versus the Rochester Americans at 7:05 p.m. All patrons with a ticket to the B-Sens game that evening will be able to attend both games.

The Senators have extended a special ticket offer for that evening’s games. Tickets are $16.50 for either side or end seats, with $4 from each ticket donated to the Michael E. Connolly Endowment for Lung Cancer Research at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, N.Y.

A native of the east side of Binghamton and a 1981 graduate of North High School, Michael Connolly was a dedicated husband, father and coach who always put others ahead of himself. In November of 2000, at the age of 37, Connolly was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer despite being in good health and never having smoked a day in his life. Following a long, courageous battle Connolly succumbed to the devastating disease.

In an effort to keep his spirit alive, his wife Penny and son Ryan have established the Michael E. Connolly Endowment for Lung Cancer Research at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse to raise funds for research and raising awareness for the disease. So far over $525,000 has been raised through the endowment and two research grants totaling $60,000 have been issued.

To purchase tickets to help Drop the Puck on Lung Cancer fans can contact Marissa or Jason as the B-Sens executive offices at 607-722-7367.